Major classes of property, plant and equipment (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 1,452,139	$ 1,430,526
Less: Accumulated depreciation	(330,390)	(292,412)
Total property, plant and equipment	1,121,749	1,138,114
Land and buildings
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment, gross	1,013,015	1,020,570
Machinery and equipment
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment, gross	210,992	193,839
Fixtures, fittings and office equipment
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment, gross	209,050	197,862
River cruise ship and canal boats
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment, gross	$ 19,082	$ 18,255